"I made this recipe for a st. pattys day party three years ago and I'm still asked year round if I can make it for the next pattys party. I think carrots and peas hide the rest of the flavors, so instead went with celery and sliced mushrooms. It didn't change the feel of the stew but added that much more flavor. Also, isntead of roasting the potatos, made mashed potatos and then put the mashed potatos in individual bowls and covered with the stew. Definitely a keeper."